Micronesia Travel Information

Micronesia is a group of islands located in the Pacific Ocean, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. From snorkeling in pristine waters to exploring ancient ruins, there's something for everyone in Micronesia. Here are the top 10 things to do in Micronesia:

1. Snorkel or Dive the Palauan Rock Islands

The Palauan Rock Islands are a group of over 200 small islands, known for their stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life. Snorkel or dive among colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures in this breathtaking underwater world.

2. Explore the Ancient Ruins of Nan Madol

Nan Madol is an ancient city built on a lagoon, located on the island of Pohnpei. Explore the ruins of this once-great city and learn about its rich cultural heritage and history.

3. Visit Tobi Village on Tobi Island

Tobi Island is home to the traditional Tobi Village, where visitors can learn about the local culture, participate in traditional activities, and observe daily life in a traditional Micronesian village.

4. Take a Boat Tour of Yap

Yap is known for its stunning scenery and traditional culture, and a boat tour is a great way to experience both. Explore the islands, visit traditional villages, and see the famous stone money used as currency on Yap.

5. Hike the Trails of Kosrae

Kosrae is home to lush rainforests, waterfalls, and towering mountains, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike the trails of Kosrae and discover the stunning beauty of this island.

6. Visit the Chuuk Lagoon

The Chuuk Lagoon is a stunning body of water surrounded by lush vegetation and dotted with small islands. Explore the lagoon by boat and visit the many WWII shipwrecks lying on the seabed.

7. Learn About the Culture and History of Pohnpei

Pohnpei is a hub of Micronesian culture and history, offering visitors a chance to learn about the rich heritage of the region. Visit the local museums, participate in cultural events, and explore the traditional villages of Pohnpei.

8. Relax on the Beaches of Kosrae

Kosrae is home to some of the most stunning beaches in Micronesia, offering visitors a chance to relax and soak up the sun. Whether you want to sunbathe, swim, or explore the beach, Kosrae has something for everyone.

9. Visit the Local Markets

The local markets in Micronesia are a great place to experience the vibrant culture of the region. Browse the stalls, sample local food, and take home a souvenir or two.

10. Take a Kayaking Tour

Take a kayaking tour and explore the stunning waters surrounding Micronesia's islands. Paddle through crystal-clear waters, see local wildlife, and discover the beauty of this unique region from a different perspective.

Micronesia has a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The best time to visit Micronesia depends on your personal preferences and travel plans.

Climate

The climate in Micronesia is warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 75-85°F (24-29°C). The rainy season typically runs from July to October, although heavy rainfall can occur at any time.

Best Time to Visit

Dry Season (December to June)

The dry season is the best time to visit Micronesia for those who prefer sunny and dry weather. This time of year is also ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the islands.

Rainy Season (July to November)

The rainy season is a good time to visit Micronesia for those who don't mind the rain and are interested in experiencing the lush vegetation and waterfalls that are prevalent during this time of year. It is also a good time to visit for those interested in cultural events and festivals, as many take place during the rainy season.

Considerations

It is important to consider the timing of your visit based on your personal preferences and travel plans. If you plan on exploring the islands, snorkeling or diving, or engaging in outdoor activities, the dry season may be a better choice. If you are interested in experiencing the lush vegetation and waterfalls, or participating in cultural events, the rainy season may be a better fit.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Micronesia offers a range of accommodation options for travelers, from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Whether you're looking for a place to stay on a budget or something a little more luxurious, there is something for everyone in Micronesia.

Guesthouses and Hostels

Guesthouses and hostels offer budget-friendly accommodation options in Micronesia. They are typically located in urban areas and offer basic amenities at a lower price point.

Camping and Glamping

For those who love the great outdoors, camping and glamping options are available on many of the islands in Micronesia.

Hotels and Resorts

Mid-range hotels and resorts offer a comfortable stay with more amenities than budget-friendly options. These are a good choice for travelers who want a balance between comfort and affordability.

Luxury Resorts

Luxury resorts in Micronesia offer the ultimate in luxury and comfort, with top-notch amenities, stunning views, and a range of activities and services. These are a good choice for those who want to pamper themselves during their stay.

Private Villas

Private villas offer a secluded and intimate accommodation option in Micronesia. These villas often come with a private pool, stunning views, and a range of amenities, making them a great choice for those who want a more exclusive experience.

Micronesia offers several transportation options for travelers, including air, sea, and land-based options. Depending on your travel plans, you can choose the mode of transportation that best suits your needs.

Domestic Flights

Domestic flights are the most convenient way to travel between the different islands in Micronesia. Major airlines serve the region, offering flights between the major islands and international destinations.

Ferries

Ferries are a common form of transportation in Micronesia, connecting the different islands and providing a more scenic way to travel. They offer a unique way to explore the islands and are a good choice for those who want to take their time and enjoy the scenery.

Taxis

Taxis are a convenient way to get around in Micronesia, particularly in urban areas. They are readily available and offer a flexible way to travel.

Buses

Buses are a budget-friendly option for travel in Micronesia. They offer a convenient way to get around, although the route and frequency of services can be limited.

Car Rental

Renting a car is a good option for those who want to explore the islands at their own pace. This allows for more flexibility and independence, and is a good choice for those who prefer a self-guided tour.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.